Free events in Mountain View, CA

Presented by Sunnyvale Library and Recreation Services staff, this free storytime takes place in the all-inclusive Magical Bridge Playground. A story will be read aloud in an accessible setting that welcomes families and individuals of every age and ability.

Experience Gamble Garden’s historic house and grounds while learning about nature. Adults, children, and families can enjoy guided tours, scavenger hunts, interactive education stations, hands-on crafts, story time, and other special activities. Every month features a new theme. Admission is free and open to all.

Join UC Master Gardener Matt Hall for an in-person presentation on how to keep squirrels, rats, and gophers out of your garden. You’ll learn about the types of damage these pests can cause and practical ways to manage them, including habitat modification, exclusion, deterrence, and other control methods. The session runs from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM and is free, though seating is limited and registration is recommended.

Concerts on the Plaza, Niles’ free and family friendly music series, continues at the historic Niles Town Plaza with Jinx Jones and the Kingtones delivering energetic rockabilly. Attendees can bring lawn chairs and blankets for an afternoon of live music in the heart of Niles.

Cap off the outdoor summer dance season with a free swing dance lesson at Niles Town Plaza. Catch the outdoor summer concert beforehand, then stay for an instructor-led session in the open air. No prior experience or partner is needed, and beginners as well as seasoned dancers are welcome. Use the evening to explore Niles, meet new people, browse local shops, and pick up food from nearby restaurants while enjoying a festive community atmosphere. Ample parking is available close by.

Join for STEM Play and Bubble Day, a free community event at the park at The Village at San Antonio Center. Enjoy hands-on STEM activities, music from a live DJ, and a bubble artist with larger-than-life creations. Activities are available while supplies last.

Bay Area Quiz Club hosts in-person trivia that blends friendly competition with a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. Run by volunteers, the club brings people together to enjoy quizzing and build community across the Bay Area. Events take place at Mitchell Park Library in Palo Alto and are free and open to all, whether you are new to trivia or a seasoned quiz fan.

A relaxed hour at Gamble Garden brings together gardeners and the garden curious to connect and talk about their own plots. This free gathering takes place on the second Monday of each month and welcomes all ages. Attendees are encouraged to participate in a plant swap by bringing plants, seeds, or cuttings to exchange with neighbors, and any extras will be shared with the community. Advance registration is requested. Check in details and the meeting location depend on the weather and will be shared ahead of time.

An activity at the park welcomes participants ages 14 and older. High school students can earn service-learning hours during summer vacation by taking part. For additional details, the organizers are available to answer questions.

This service opportunity focuses on serving dinner at LifeMoves Mountain View, a community partner of Foothills. Volunteers provide a meal for residents, and carpooling is encouraged because parking at the site is limited. LifeMoves Mountain View offers interim housing where each household has a private unit, along with ADA-compliant facilities for case management, educational workshops, dining, recreation, laundry, and a pet area. The effort supports neighbors experiencing homelessness in a welcoming and dignified setting.